Aluja AS, Bouda J, López CA, Chavira HH

Language: English/Spanish
References: 18
Page: 271-278
PDF size: 59.37 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Selected blood biochemical- and hematological values were determined in 32 donkeys before and after work at an altitude above 2 000 masl (meters above sea level). Animals of both sexes, aged 4 to 15 years, and weighing between 100 and 160 kg, were divided into Groups 1, 2, 3 carrying loads of 80 to 130 kg during 1, 2 and 3 h, respectively. Samples of venous blood were collected from each animal before loading, and within 5 min after unloading. Blood acid-base values, PCV, plasma electrolyte concentrations, anion gap (AG), total protein, glucose and AST activity were determined. Values of pH, actual bicarbonate (HCO3-a), base excess (BE), total CO2 (TCO2), and plasma inorganic phosphorus were significantly increased after 1, 2 and 3 h work, while values of pCO2, PCV, sodium, chloride and AG were significantly lower in comparison with the initial values. There were no significant differences in plasma concentrations of potassium, calcium, total protein, glucose and AST activity before and after work. This study indicates that the Mexican donkey shows a satisfactory compensation to prolonged exercise of 1, 2 and 3 h duration at an altitude above 2 000 masl, despite having to carry heavy loads.

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